The world arrives on campus

Emilia Törneblom, Adalmiina Toivola and Salla Pylkkönen from Finland and Sumit Singh from India had their first meeting with their new university today. (Photo: Asbjørn Jensen)

The foyer of Arne Rettedal’s House became something of an international melting pot when the new students received their student cards on Wednesday 10 August. They were greeted with speeches, practical information and presentations from various organisations and institutions.

“A friend who previously studied at the UiS recommended the university to me,” says Salla Pylkkönen.

“I’m looking forward to learning new things from new teachers,” says Pylkkönen.

A popular week

The University would like to see the new students well integrated in the Norwegian student community, both when it comes to everyday life and academic challenges. Tailored orientation days will prepare them for student life in Stavanger.

External parties contributed with useful information on banking, health services and things to do for students in the Stavanger region.

The orientation week is popular with the students. In addition to receiving information, they get to know their fellow students from all over the world.

Tough competition

“A spot at UiS is coveted among international students. 385 students are selected from a total of 3500 applicants. Most of these students come from France, Germany, Spain, Poland, Russia, Nepal and Pakistan”, explains Magdalena Brekke from the International Office at UiS.

The new Master of Science in Business Administration programme received the highest number of international applications this year, with 357 applications for 10 places. Petroleum studies were also popular and had 320 applicants competing for 10 places in the Reservoir Engineering programme.

The number of applicants and high qualification level of students accepted is a result of the growing internationalisation at UiS. A total of 1380 international students are currently admitted to UiS, representing around 11 percent of the student body.